According to Quantum Chromodynamics,the force that keeps quarks confined within a proton (or neutron)increases as the separation between the individual quarks increases.Which statement below best represents this scenario? A)The quarks are tied together by nonstretchable strings. B)The quarks are tied together by elastic strings. C)The quarks move independently of each other. D)The force between the quarks has a 1/r² behavior like gravity. E)The potential energy of a quark decreases with separation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD), the force that keeps quarks confined within a proton (or neutron) increases as the separation between the individual quarks increases. This is similar to stretching an elastic band, where the force required to pull the band increases as it stretches. Therefore, option B, "The quarks are tied together by elastic strings," best represents this scenario. Option A is incorrect as there is no evidence to suggest that the strings are non-stretchable. Option C is incorrect as quarks are bound together within a proton (or neutron), and do not move independently of each other. Option D is incorrect as the strong force, which binds quarks together, has a completely different functional form compared to the gravitational force. Option E is also incorrect as the potential energy of a quark actually increases with separation, due to the increased force required to keep them bound together.

According to Quantum Chromodynamics,the Force That Keeps Quarks Confined Within